Can Antifreeze Be Used as Windshield Washer Fluid?
2 Answers
Antifreeze cannot be used as windshield washer fluid. Antifreeze is designed for the engine cooling system and does not possess the cleaning and other functions associated with windshield washer fluid. On the other hand, windshield washer fluid is primarily used for cleaning vehicle windows, removing dirt or stains from the glass surface. Similarly, windshield washer fluid is not suitable for use as a coolant. The relevant details are as follows: 1. Antifreeze prevents the coolant from freezing and expanding in cold winter conditions, which could otherwise crack the radiator or damage the engine cylinder block or head. 2. Windshield washer fluid should have excellent cleaning and antifreeze properties. In winter, the antifreeze performance of the washer fluid should be the selection criterion, and one should choose a washer fluid with a freezing point at least 10°C below the local minimum temperature. Otherwise, it may lead to issues such as frozen washer fluid or failure of the washer pump.
After driving for so many years, I often see beginners trying to save money by using things improperly, but you should never use antifreeze as windshield washer fluid. Antifreeze is designed for the engine cooling system and contains chemicals like ethylene glycol. If sprayed onto the windshield, it leaves sticky, greasy stains that are nearly impossible to wipe off and can also corrode wiper blades, causing squeaking or damage. Windshield washer fluid is specifically formulated for cleaning and antifreezing, containing alcohol or methanol to melt ice and remove dirt safely. Don’t cut corners here—if it obstructs your vision and causes an accident, the repair costs would far exceed the price of hundreds of bottles of washer fluid. I recommend using antifreeze-type washer fluid in winter and regular fluid in summer—it’s affordable and effective.
